ASSISTIVE TECHNOLOGY

What is Assistive Technology?

• IDEA 2004 defines an Assistive Technology device as "any item, piece of equipment, or product system - whether acquired commercially off the shelf, modified, or customized - that is used to increase, maintain, or improve the functional capabilities of a child with a disability." An Assistive Technology Service is defined as "any service that directly assists a child with a disability in the selection, acquisition, or use of any assistive technology device.

• AT can allow for alternative forms of communication for your students, and is available for ALL.

• If you are needing an evaluation to determine the most appropriate device for your student, please contact the AT person on your campus.

Resources

1. Texas Technology Access Program

https://disabilitystudies.utexas.edu/ttap

2. Texas Assistive Technology Network (TATN)

http://www.texasat.net/at-resources/webinars

3. AbleNet (webinars, devices, curriculum)

https://www.ablenetinc.com/

4. Assistive Technology Industry Association (ATIA) (webinars)

https://www.atia.org/

5. Region 4 ESC Super Tools for Teachers

http://www.esc4.net/udl

6. Region 13 ESC Technology Toolbox

https://www4.esc13.net/assistivetech/toolbox/

Inventory

• For future check-out of devices, districts may contact the consultant to inquire about available AT. Appointments to come to the ESC or for ESC personnel to come to the district to allow for previews of available AT can be scheduled.

Whitney Creekmore, M. Ed

Educational Consultant – Special Education

Visual Impairment (VI), Deaf/Hard of Hearing (D/HH), Deafblind (DB), Assistive Technology (AT), Inclusion, CPI Trainer